The Open Access Publishing Association (OAPA) welcomes proposals for new Special Interest Groups (SIGs) that align with our mission to advance fair and open knowledge. SIGs are established by members to support scholarly collaboration, capacity building, and dialogue in areas relevant to open access publishing, scholarly communication, and equitable research practices.

SIGs provide a platform for researchers, educators, practitioners, and institutions to work collectively on initiatives that:

• Grow leadership in diamond open access publishing,
• Build capability in open access scholarship, and
• Foster communities dedicated to open and inclusive knowledge dissemination.

Each SIG is formed and governed by members and operates with the support of OAPA’s Partnership Committee. Activities may include webinars, resource development, publications, conference engagement, and other forms of scholarly exchange.

Getting Involved

Membership in a SIG is open to current OAPA members with an interest in the group’s focus. OAPA encourages diverse participation across disciplines, sectors, and geographic regions.

To propose a new SIG, members must submit a detailed proposal including aims, membership, convenor team, planned activities, and a proposed budget. Funding of up to AUD $1,000 per year is available to support core activities.

Annual Requirements

Active SIGs are expected to:

• Deliver at least two webinars or equivalent activities per year,
• Submit an annual report and financial summary, and
• Contribute, where possible, to the OAPA newsletter.

All SIGs are approved for a three-year term and may apply for renewal. Inactive SIGs may be concluded in consultation with the OAPA Board.

Download the Guidelines

Interested in forming a SIG? Download the full guidelines here:
Download: OAPA Special Interest Group Guidelines (PDF)

For questions or to submit a proposal, contact:
secretary@open-publishing.org